US Defence Secretary Lloyd J. Austin met with Saudi Arabia’s Defence Minister, Khalid bin Salman Al Saud (KbS) and affirmed US commitment towards protecting civilians and ‘unfettered’ access to the delivery of humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza.
Austin, KbS Discuss Global and Regional Issues
During his meeting with KbS, Defence Secretary Austin provided an update on US assistance to Israel as it works to restore regional security in the aftermath of Hamas’ terrorist attack on 7 October.
The readout says both leaders discussed the significance of the US’ long-term security partnership with Saudi Arabia, with Austin emphasising the US’ commitment to the Kingdom’s territorial defence and strengthening and expanding a strong bilateral defence partnership.
Today, I welcomed His Royal Highness @kbsalsaud 🇸🇦 to the Pentagon to discuss the importance of the enduring U.S.-Saudi partnership and ways we can work together on regional de-escalation.https://t.co/xlZDyzOL7d pic.twitter.com/4MZfsaV3Q1
— Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) November 2, 2023
Austin acknowledged the Kingdom’s critical role in regional security and stability, and thanked the KbS for his leadership, particularly his consistent support and cooperation in working towards a lasting peace in Yemen.
The American official also appreciated Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, as well as Sudan’s efforts to hold diplomatic discussions and facilitate evacuation operations.
In response to rising regional challenges, the Secretary reaffirmed the US’ commitment to promoting deeper integration, particularly in air and missile defence and marine security.
Both leaders pledged to work together to prevent regional escalation, and Secretary Austin further highlighted the US intention of assisting its regional partners in defending themselves, the readout concluded.
#PHOTOS: #SaudiArabia's defense minister Prince @kbsalsaud received by US @SecDef Lloyd Austin ahead of official discussion session pic.twitter.com/mKfgiFYzrN
— Arab News (@arabnews) November 1, 2023
KbS, Blinken Discuss Regional De-escalation Strategies
Saudi Defence Minister KbS said on Wednesday that he met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss strategic partnerships and strategies to de-escalate regional tensions.
According to a statement released by the Saudi Press Agency, during the meeting, Blinken and KbS assessed the two countries’ close strategic connections and discussed measures to strengthen them. They also addressed joint efforts and cooperation to de-escalate the situation in the region.
After the meeting, KbS tweeted, “We also explored aspects of cooperation to achieve our shared vision of promoting security and stability, both in the region and the world.”
The Saudi Ambassador to the US, Princess Reema bint Bandar, and Chief of General Staff, Lieutenant-General Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili, as well as many top Saudi and US officials, were present at the meeting.